David Hopkin wants to stay on as boss as Livingston board prepare to meet following relegation

DAVID Hopkin will meet with the Livingston board today to discuss his position as manager as the club faces up to life in League One and an uncertain financial future.

The Lions succumbed to relegation from the Championship via a play-off semi-final defeat to Stranraer at the weekend in an incredible 8-6 aggregate defeat.

Having overcome a 5-2 first-leg defeat to force extra-time, the West Lothian side could not complete the great escape and followed Alloa Athletic in slipping out of the second-tier.

It was revealed recently that Livingston, who have suffered administration on two previous occasions, could go bust again if they lose a claim for just £7,200 at an employment tribunal.

With finances so tight, it remains to be seen how the Almondvale outfit will cope with relegation to League One, but Hopkin is adamant he can help steer the club back to the Championship.

The former Morton, Leeds United and Crystal Palace midfielder stepped up from his assistant’s role in December when Mark Burchill was sacked and believes he has made a difference since being handed the job until the end of the season.

He said: “I’m really, really disappointed for everybody connected to the club – the fans, the board, but they’ve been great since I took over in.

“There will be discussions on Monday, there will be a board meeting and we’ll see what happens on Monday.

“But I’m positive enough. I think anybody’s that’s watched us since January will see we’ve improved massively.

“The age of the group’s come down and everything we’ve done – from GPS, to urine testing, to ice baths, to massages – has been as professional as we can.

“It’s just a young team but we’ll bounce back and we’ll be stronger next season.”